Unlike most colleges, Flagler College in St. Augustine, FL, was once a hotel for the rich and famous during the later 1800's. In an effort to preserve the building, it was maintained and turned into a small liberal arts college. While some portions of the building have been turned into dorm rooms, the outside, main halls, and some of the rooms have been kept the same in order to preserve history. If you are planning a trip to St. Augustine, you should consider taking a tour. All proceeds of the tour benefit the students and the guides are students who are more than happy to answer your questions.
Inside the building, you will find beautiful stained-glass windows, original architecture, and much more. While some of the areas have been renovated, you can still get a sense of what the hotel used to look like. Because many of the guests came from the East coast, getting away from the harsh winters was a priority. Guests were usually from wealthy families and stayed in grand rooms to suit their needs.
While the tour is a short one, it is worth it according to many others who have taken it. You will be able to walk the grounds, watch students attend their classes, and learn more about the builder of the hotel and his legacy. Many people who visit the college are left with a greater appreciation for historical preservation and the innovative ways the college has been able to maintain the building.
